Abstract

Puerto Rico (PR) is a Caribbean island with a population of 3.7 million. Currently, PR has 16% unemployment rate, which affects the health care of approximately 42% of the population and their access to quality health services. Cancer represents the second cause of death among Puerto Ricans. Breast cancer is the most diagnosed cancer among women representing 33% of the yearly cancer cases. Susan G. Komen for the Cure (SGK) is the global leader of breast cancer awareness. The SGK Puerto Rico affiliate was established in 2003 and currently has a Board of Directors of 11 members, three full-time employees and a group of passionate volunteers. With awareness ans service initiatives, SKG Puerto Rico has positively impacted 1.8 million people 15 years and older during 2011. The affiliate's 2011 community profile defined three major objectives: continue educational efforts for breast cancer awareness provide access to early detection programs and create a breast cancer patient profile. Grants are giver to community outreach organizations through a structured process. The affiliate's signature program is Banders through which alliances with companies, organizations, hospitals, schools and other entities are formed. With Banderas, large amount of individuals are educated, volunteers are recruits, sponsors are engaged and the network of breast cancer advocates increases.